Phase IV is often referred to as the maintenance phase of cardiac
rehabilitation (rehab), because it emphasizes long-term lifestyle changes, such as a regular
exercise program. The program will help you practice and keep healthy
behaviors and habits.

Phase IV programs are usually held at a community facility or
at home and will be tailored to your specific needs.

Regular communication
with your rehab staff or doctor for periodic reviews and assessments is an
important part of phase IV. Your progress will be monitored by several rehab staff members. The
number of rehab sessions you have each week will vary depending upon
the structure of your program.

Your rate of recovery depends on age, gender, and other health
conditions. Depending upon your condition and how you respond to rehab, you may
stay in a certain phase or move back and forth among the phases.
There is no set length of time that you must stay in a certain phase.